Results of the Great Uprising of 1857 and Its Impact on India

Subject : Social Science

Question:

A new phase of colonial rule started in India after 1857. Briefly explain any four results of the Great Uprising of 1857.

Expert Verified Solution:

After the Great Uprising of 1857, also known as the First War of Indian Independence, a new phase of colonial rule began in India. The British government restructured its approach to ruling India, resulting in significant political, military, and social changes.

Four Results of the Great Uprising of 1857:

1. End of the East India Company’s Rule: The British Crown took direct control of India from the British East India Company. Queen Victoria’s Proclamation of 1858 marked the end of the Company’s rule, and the British government established the office of the Viceroy to govern India.

2. Reorganization of the Army: The British restructured the Indian army, increasing the proportion of British soldiers to Indian sepoys. They also reduced the number of Indian soldiers from the areas most involved in the rebellion and recruited soldiers from other regions and communities less inclined to revolt.

3. Policy of Divide and Rule: The British employed a “divide and rule” strategy to prevent future uprisings by fostering divisions along religious, ethnic, and caste lines. This policy ensured that different communities in India would not unite against British authority.

4. Increased Racial Discrimination: The uprising led to greater mistrust between the British and Indians. As a result, the British imposed stricter segregation policies and increased discrimination, with a more racially biased attitude toward governance and society.